If you haven’t visited Canada before, you should. If you live in Canada, you haven’t really experienced it all until you’ve had the coast to coast experience. Whether it’s by plane, train or a memorable road trip, get out there in 2017 and explore. I promise you won’t regret it. Need a little more convincing? Here are 9 unbeatable reasons to travel Canada that should give you plenty of motivation to pack your bags.

1. It’s Gorgeous.

Amazing, Beautiful, Unique, Pretty…I don’t think words can explain how stunning the Canadian landscape is. From the Rocky Mountains of the rugged British Columbia coast, through the flat plains of the prairie provinces, to the quaintness of the eastern winding Cabot Trail of Nova Scotia. We of course can’t forget the wonder of Ontario’s Niagara Falls or catching the Northern Lights as they flash across the territory skies. The majestic beauty of Canada’s wild outdoors will take your breath away.

2. More Than Ever It’s Affordable.

Normally Canada can be quite expensive to travel, but the poor Canadian dollar continues to slip. A lower dollar value means more Canadians are choosing to travel within their own borders rather than venturing abroad. It also presents a great opportunity for the rest of the world to make their dollars stretch a little further by getting a break on cheaper travel accommodations.

3. Canada Is Celebrating Her 150th Birthday.

Did you know that Canada is having a birthday in 2017? Shhhh she’s getting a little old….but it’s kind of a big deal. Come celebrate with us! The big day is July 1st in case you want to mark the special day on your calendars.

4. National Parks Have Free Admission in 2017

That’s right, ALL of the National Parks have free admission in 2017. This is of course for the aforementioned birthday above. Did you know there are 43 National Parks? Particular hot spot destinations not to be missed for your trip itinerary include:

Jasper and Banff National Parks in Alberta

Yoho and Glacier National Parks in British Columbia

Fundy National Park in New Brunswick

Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland

5. Most Friendly People Per Capita

Culturally, Canada is awesome. (Of course I’m a little biased) Maybe it’s the cold winters or something in the water but I definitely think Canada deserves its reputation of being the friendly neighbour to the north. Feel free to test this stereotype out by saying “Hello” to a complete stranger or counting how many times we apologize by saying “Sorry” in the same sentence. Just try not to tease us too much about saying “Eh” at the end of our sentences – but don’t worry we won’t be offended.

6. Adventure Awaits

Want adventure? We have it all. From white water rafting over rapids to ziplining through the forest. How about ice fishing or camping in acres of rural wilderness. Canada has something for everyone – our backyard is the great outdoors.

7. A Politically Stable Nation.

Politically, we’ve got our stuff together – most days. Our Prime Minister is voted in by the majority of the country and loved by the world. With the most recent election, our southern neighbours were lining up to move to the great and wild north.

8. Solo Traveler’s Paradise

Canada is perfect for both solo and family travel. Having traveled solo from coast to coast, personally I’ve always felt safe. That says a lot about a country.

9. Foodies Unite

Hungry? Better save your appetite, because although Canada doesn’t boast many uniquely Canadian dishes other than poutine, we have amazing food. The multicultural Canadian landscape brings in the best of all foodie experiences…especially in Quebec. If that doesn’t float your boat – don’t worry, we also have Tim Hortons.

30-something. Storyteller. Avid traveler and photographer. Cat lover. Carolynne is the the owner and founder of The Thirsty Tourist blog. When she is not traveling, exploring, or enjoying backyard adventures, she resides in Vancouver, Canada with her husband and 4 pets.